INSPIRATION....Tell a little bit about what inspires you and informs your aesthetic as you design a new collection.

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Ivanka: Heirloom-chic is my vision. My love of the classics focuses our work on the years between the '20s and '60s. The creative core of my collection rests on the modern spin we bring to those classics, turning them into signature Ivanka trump designs. Each piece in the collection appeals to strong, independent women of all ages. I'm also constantly inspired by my travels all over the world: my recent trip to the Middle East, my honeymoon to Africa, Italy, France, Morocco-vibrant cultures and rich histories motivate and inspire each piece of my collection.

DOLLARS & CENTS...In the wake of the economic turbulence of 2009, how has your business model and approach to the jewelry business, changed?

Ivanka: The business model has developed in two distinct ways in the last year:
First, through global expansion and retail partnerships with top US retailers through a strategic distribution network that will feature wholesale units, and ultimately, a few select new stores. We are in the process of launching the collection in the Middle East by Fall 2010 through strategic retail partnerships with luxury retailers in the region and are also looking to establish the brand in Asia on a retail level.

Secondly, expand the current collections with jewels that, despite a more accessible entry-level price points (which includes approximately 65 new styles), are no less of the quality and design of our more important pieces. The new launch includesmore than 20 new styles ranging from $550 to $2,500. Equal emphasis was given to strengthening the offerings between $3,000 and $8,000, addressing the price points most commonly associated with the shopping preferences of the independent, self-purchasing woman of today.

SOCIAL TIES...How, if at all, has the concept of social media affected your business?

Ivanka: I am constantly connected to my customers, fans and aspirational customers through the Ivanka Trump Fine Jewelry Facebook Fan Page and Twitter (which has over 750,000 followers). Social media keeps me in touch with the
desires of my customers and loops me in with aspirational customers who follow the brand now and will possibly become comfortable with buying the jewelry collection in the future. We have over 4000 fans now on Facebook who are constantly commenting, "liking" and rating the jewelry pieces and the press the collection receives. I believe that social media builds a family around a brand that no other medium quite captures yet.

L'ADORE...

What is your favorite, go-to piece of jewelry, from the Ivanka Trump collection?

Ivanka: My favorite go-to piece from the Ivanka Trump collection are signature oval diamond earrings, mixed cut diamond hoops, stacks of white and black diamond bangles, and the Octagonal yellow gold necklace. Of the many new pieces we are now launching, there are a few mixed-size bead necklaces with my signature oval clasp that I sense will find their way into my regular wardrobe, and some very chic drop earrings that can easily go from day to evening.

THE BRAND...How does the Ivanka Trump collection stand-apart from the other storied jewelry houses on Madison/Fifth?

Ivanka: The company's motto, 'Rock Tradition', speaks for itself! Putting a modern twist on the most desirable jewelry classics makes the collection relevant, smart and well-positioned. Ninety percent of our customers are women buying for themselves – the perfect modern twist to an old tradition.

What can we look forward to from the Ivanka Trump jewelry collection, and brand, in the year to come?

Ivanka: The collection will soon be available globally and nationally through retail partnerships. The brand will also continue to stay true to its vintage heirloom-chic style while continuing to appeal to the modern woman.